Former NBA executive downplays LeBron James vs Steph Curry rivalry despite iconic Christmas Day game: "I don't see that dislike"

The Golden State Warriors and the LA Lakers haven't fared well this season. Even so, LeBron James and Steph Curry managed to turn back the clock for an instant classic on Christmas Day.

James had 31 points and 10 rebounds in the win, while Curry led all scorers with 38 in a (115-113) narrow loss that went down to the wire.

After countless epic matchups between the two, James even compared it to the infamous beef between 2Pac Shakur and Notorious B.I.G.

“Those four straight years, Cleveland versus Golden State. It was literally like East Coast vs. West Coast. It was like a rap beef. Golden State on the West Coast and the Cavs on the East Coast. It was like a rap beef, James told ESPN.

However, Bobby Marks disagrees. The renowned insider doesn't think they dislike each other, which is why he doesn't see it as a rivalry:

"I think, when I hear the word 'rivalry,' I hear the word 'dislike,' and I see two players that have a genuine like for each other — certainly off the court and on the court," Marks said on First Take.

"I just don't see that. Even with LeBron in Cleveland, now with the Lakers, I don't see that dislike on the court."

LeBron James, Steph Curry address the next generation of NBA stars

Steph Curry's and LeBron James' days atop of the league are reaching an end. With that in mind, they had some words of appreciation for the new generation of players that will carry the torch in the future.

"We are fans of the guys that are coming up in the ranks and just doing great things. We hope that we have just inspired them to, you know, when we decide that we're done and they can keep this beautiful game going," LeBron said.

"Every year it's like new styles and new young energy coming through that challenges you. But then also knowing like we know it's not going to be forever. So I feel like it gives you perspective on enjoying the game now and to enjoy every minute of it," Curry said.

Needless to say, those up-and-coming players will have the bar quite high after these two are gone.